BDT EXPANSION ROOTED IN STRONG FOUNDATION

While we are expanding from Athens into a new market in Columbus, it is important to remember and honor the history of our firm and how it came to grow into what it is today. BDT was founded in 1983 by merging sole-proprietor practices of David Panich and Michael Noel. Thus, the original firm name, Panich and Noel. Both were graduates of Ohio University’s School of Architecture that was eliminated in 1974 during major cuts to arts funding in the nation. The business partners saw a need for their talents in Athens and decided to remain there to build their architecture firm. Buildings of note from the origination of Panich and Noel include the Athens Country Clubhouse and Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development (COAD) offices. With their hard work and vision, the two left a legacy that has evolved into present day BDT.

At BDT, we pride ourselves on incorporating sustainable principles into our designs, while making the designs community appropriate. This ideology stems from the original visions of both Panich and Noel. Panich found inspiration in the growing energy-conscious movement as a result of the Middle East oil embargo and set out to design passive solar houses. At the same time, Noel worked with the Department of Corrections and Ohio University. Both partners worked to establish the firm into an early green design advocate and a provider of architectural services to state institutions. While BDT has conscientiously pursued school work over prisons, we still maintain green principles as a means of business. We have never dedicated our resources to the improvement of state facilities as we do today. In the footsteps of Panich and Noel, we make every effort to deliver forward-thinking, sustainable designs and diversify our portfolio in project types and services offered.

While Athens, Ohio remains the home base, BDT expanded into the Central Ohio market in the mid 2000s. Because of our expertise in renovations and dedicated project management, our presence and project load in the Columbus area has steadily grown since then. We are proud to represent and have an impact on Athens, Ohio and now Columbus, Ohio. Our specialties include the Healthcare, Education, Commercial and Community markets with our client list including big names such as OhioHealth, Holzer Health Systems, Ohio University, The Ohio State University, and Bellisio’s.  

Knowing the the next generation of leaders in the organization are just around the corner, BDT is investing in technology, employee benefits and office space like never before in our 34-year history. We are excited to see what the future holds as we continue to grow and evolve, and we appreciate and honor our roots.